M. Istianto, K.D. Sutanto, S. Ikawati, R.C. Wicaksono, S. Widyaningsih, M.E. Dwiastuti, U. Triasih, O. Endarto, Affandi, Handoko, I. Yustina, L. Mufidah, S. Wuryantini, Nurjanani, S. Agustini, D. Setyorini, D.W. Utami
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chili is a key agricultural commodity in Indonesia, yet its productivity remains low, primarily due to pest and disease infestations. One of the most detrimental pests to chili plants is Aphis gossypii. While insecticides are effective in managing these pests, their environmental impact raises concern, making it essential to explore eco-friendly options. Citronella oil, a potential natural pesticide, warrants further investigation. This study was conducted in both laboratory and field settings. In the laboratory, the efficacy of citronella oil in controlling Aphis gossypii was assessed in terms of its toxicity and repellent effects. This study focused on analyzing the efficacy of citronella oil in regulating the populations of Aphis gossypii on chili plants. METHODS: Laboratory and field experiments employed a Randomized Block Design. In the laboratory, citronella oil concentrations were tested against a control, and both mortality and repellent effects were monitored. In the field study, four treatments were implemented: the use of citronella oil, rotation with synthetic insecticides, and a control condition. The Aphis gossypii population was assessed weekly for a duration of ten weeks. FINDINGS: The results revealed that citronella oil effectively reduced Aphis gossypii populations, demonstrating repellent (18.6 percent) and toxic (89.1 percent) effects. Citronella oil demonstrated a reduction in Aphis gossypii populations under field conditions, both when utilized on its own and when rotation with synthetic insecticides. At the end of the observation period, a single application of citronella oil resulted in a 91 percent reduction in Aphis gossypii populations. Citronella oil stands out as a sustainable and efficient method for controlling Aphis gossypii, making it a promising substitute for conventional insecticides in the management of pests affecting chili plants. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that citronella oil effectively reduces Aphis gossypii infestations on chili plants by repelling and intoxicating the pests acting as a natural pesticide, citronella oil presents a safer alternative to synthetic chemicals, thereby decreasing environmental pollution and protecting beneficial organisms. Its integration into pest management strategies has the potential to promote sustainable agricultural practices. However, further research is needed to validate its effectiveness across different locations and assess its broader ecological impact. © (2025), (GJESM Publication). All rights reserved.
Research Center for Horticulture, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jl. Raya Jakarta-Bogor, Cibinong, Indonesia; Department of Plant Pests and Diseases, Faculty of Agriculture, Brawijaya University, Jl. Veteran, East Java, Malang, 65145, Indonesia; Directorate for Scientific Collection Management, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jl. M.H. Thamrin, 10340, Indonesia; Research Center for Behavioral and Circular Economics, National Research and Innovation Agency, PPID Building, Jl. Jend. Gatot Subroto, Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia; Research Center for Estate Crops, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jl. Raya Jakarta-Bogor, Cibinong, Indonesia
